We’ve been biting our nails at Berghaus HQ during the last few days. Although we knew that it wasn’t easy for Leo Houlding and team to send out news from their climb on the enormous Mirror Wall, the longer that there was radio silence, the more nervous we got.
Then, a few minutes ago, Leo contacted Berghaus with this message:
“We nailed it! The team has successfully climbed the Mirror Wall by the main face and descended safely. Such a huge wall – taller than El Cap – and so blank and smooth that you can almost see your reflection. Strategically simple, tactically highly complex – the month long process of gazing deep into the mirror looking for a way to the top is over and we found it!
We are back in base camp. The crew, little experienced in this game, have all excelled and not just survived, but thrived on the challenge. It has been a privilege to run wild with these strong guys out here in this grown up playground.
We topped out in an upwards snow storm, having spent 12 nights on the face. It’s no exaggeration to say that the Berghaus Extrem kit was essential to our success – thanks guys!
All we need now is for a fine day tomorrow for the helicopter pick up. It will be my 35th birthday and our home bound extraction will be the best present ever! I am ready for home. Ready to see my wife Jess and daughter Freya, ready for comfort and convenience, safety and security. I look forward to sharing all this wonder with Freya, teaching her what I have learned and showing her these magical places.”
Huge congratulations to Leo, Joe Möhle, Matt Pickles, Matt Pycroft and Waldo Etherington – a stunning achievement. Look out for more details and photos soon.
